DRDO Compact Transhorizon Communication System: India’s Defence Electronics Applications Laboratory in Dehradun has created a new communication system that works without mobile networks or satellites. This system is called the Compact Transhorizon Communication System, and it helps people talk to each other even in very narrow valleys and high mountains. DEAL is a part of DRDO
System Uses Radio Signals
The new CTCS system uses radio waves that travel through the troposphere, so it can send messages beyond the line of sight. It works like a small and portable terminal that soldiers or rescue teams can carry anywhere. This system can make strong wireless links between places that are far apart in mountain regions.
Malaysia Airlines increases flights to Kuala Lumpur from Thiruvananthapuram
The CTCS can connect the command team and the tactical team using a reliable IP network. It can reach up to 60 km in Tropo or Diffraction mode and up to 100 km in Line of Sight mode. It also supports data speeds up to 20 Mbps, which is enough for fast and clear communication in difficult areas.
The terminal uses a sensor-assisted tool that helps set up the link without much trouble. It gives a very low error rate. It also has AI software that predicts where the link will form. The whole system fits inside two small lightweight bags, so teams can carry it easily.
This system works even when the line of sight is blocked by mountains. It costs less than satellite communication and gives higher bandwidth. It is also very hard for an enemy to find or jam.
DEAL scientist Chandan Kumar explained the system in simple words. He said, “This technology is used for communication in areas where large mountains are located beyond the line of sight. It can be installed anywhere and can be used in rescue operations during disasters. Not only this, we can also transfer data through the system. Videos of up to 20 MB can also be transferred” ETV Bharat.
Top 7 exporters ranked in weapons making, is India on the list?
Testing in Remote Terrain
B Mahendra Singh, who works as a Senior Technical Assistant, said that DEAL keeps testing this tool in places where travel is very hard. He said the Home Ministry, the Army and the Navy all want this technology because it can help a lot during natural disasters. Teams can set up the CTCS in just five minutes. Right now, the system is being tested in different parts of Gujarat and Uttarakhand.
Chandan Kumar also spoke about software-defined radio. He said that in the past, engineers had to change the hardware whenever the frequency or other wireless needs changed. But now the lab has made a software-based wireless system, so teams can make changes more easily without touching the hardware.
Himalayan Challenges
A DRDO researcher, Dr Tanushree, shared that DEAL works mainly to build communication systems for the Himalayan regions where the Army faces many dangers. She said, “Our communication systems are particularly vulnerable during these disasters,” because landslides and avalanches often damage equipment.
DEAL builds technology for detection, weather forecasting and early warnings to help commanders guide troops safely. DGRE studies sensors to predict storms and heavy snow. Dr Tanushree said the NATSAT-M device sends lab data through satellites to warn soldiers about landslides and avalanches so they can move safely.
